Sunday is not so black after all...

Hi to all of you in Blog land... Well, to say it's all messed up is to say the least. First off, I forgot to get a count for today's Santa's Wonderland. If I had to guess, it would be 400. We also had 2 little new puppies (they even had puppy breath), a Great Dane, a older Black Lab, the blackest Pug I have ever seen, and a Corgi.

Ok back to the weird day... I did something I have not done in a long time - I over slept, forgot to pre-order my cab (the cab was late), and I almost forgot to bring my Santa Belt. Oh, and did I tell you it was sleeting outside and I almost landed on my backside? All of that was before I even got in the Cab, who as I said was late and did not know how to find the BPS or the Harrisburg Mall, so I had to give him directions (and I still had to pay?). I did get to work on time (Santa was starting to worry). However, once there I could not use my changing room (2 females were inputting rain checks), so I changed in the printer room. But Santa made the best of the day.

I would like to go back and comment on yesterday if I may; I see nobody objecting, so here I go. On Saturday after I did what I said on yesterday's Blog, I had the following things happen...a kid kicked me on purpose and it just happen to bleed. (Now just for a second, think how hard I had to have been kicked. The Santa pants are very Thick!) I also had a lady (I use that term because I am Santa and a gentleman) from the dark side of Black Saturday.

The lady (see above) started to manhandle her kids, slamming them into me, my chair, her other kids...plus, she was just yanking on them, "You here, no you there." and a couple of them were teenagers. I just looked at her and said, "You want me in the picture, or should I leave?" She made a rude remark and I said, "No, really, I'll leave and you can have your picture." (and I was not joking). Her kids enjoyed my remarks! She just kept posing her kids (the old spit on the fingers trick). So I started to get up, and she said, "Fine, take the picture." We did and she stormed off. (Again, somehow it was my fault.)

I thought Santa cooked his goose. But no, I lived to HO HO another day. The pictures are as follow's - Me, and the store on Black Saturday.

Thanks,

Santa Joe

Well it's true, and Sunday will be to..

Hey I rhyme!

I just want to say that Black Saturday is alive and well. We had 520 little darlings in and around Santa's lap. Plus we had 3 Boxers, and a Shi-poo (a cross between a Poodle and a Shitsu).

Let me start out by saying that Santa is Human and is affected by what goes on. So with no notice, walking off Wonderland completely for an immediate break is odd even for me. To those Elves that were caught off guard I am sorry, but I won't say it will not happen again. However, you all handled the crowd well until I could came back. Thanks.

I cannot share with you all what happened to Santa in this blog, but I can say I was almost ripped in half. People trust Santa with some deep dark secrets - really privite ones - especially the kids, and Satuday won the season so far.

There were bright spots in Black Saturday. I had the honor to be Santa to a little blind 6-8 year old girl. She was born in China and adopted with her siblings by a couple from PA. (Now if you are asking why it's okay to share this story, but not the other - this was public and the mother's comments were said in public.) Well all 4 children (the little girl and her biological siblings) had their picture taken with Santa. I had her placed between my legs and I held her hands. Her Mom told me she "sees with her hands." I said I understand, and noticed the national symbol on the chain around her neck.

After the photos and the asking of questions, I asked her siblings to please be quiet and I took the little girls hands and placed them on my face. She got startled and pulled back. I told her it was ok, and that Santa wanted her to understand who/what Santa is. So with an OK from Mom, I placed her hand back on my face. The girl felt my face, head, Santa Hat and Tassel (she was so thrilled with the tassel), beard, jacket and belt buckle. I told her I removed my glasses, closed my eyes, and just let her do her thing. Her sister said that she should be done because other kids were waiting. I said they can wait. After she said she was done and thanked me, I opened my eyes and everybody was crying - mom, siblings, elves, and most of the parents in the crowd. You could hear a pin drop...even the air was still. It was magical.

The little girl liked my beard the most! (Men in China have no facial or body hair. The very elderly have some facial hair, but nothing like mine.) I was told later that the mom said it was her best Christmas ever!

I do have another story, but I will leave tonight as is...


Santa Joe

Black Friday---It live's

Today we had 423 people through Santa's Wonderland. Plus, for those of you that are keeping track that puts us soundly over 3000 photos. That would be 3461, but who's counting...

We also had a Yorkie, Poodle, two Pointers, a mixed breed, an English Bull Dog, and a Cocker Spaniel.

Black Friday...do you ever wonder how it gets it's name? Well, its because people are in a black mood (not the true reason, but it works for me). The pushing, shoving, yelling, the feeling of entitlement, and to save the almighty buck...and that's all just to get in the parking lot. Most people, including the kids, are tired and moody by the time they get to Santa, so we go out of our way to kill them with kindness. Plus who can be mad at Santa (the keeper of the lists)!

Also Jimmy came back from New York in one piece (NY is a mess).

Well, off to bed I need my rest for Black Saturday.

Santa Joe

OK let's re-button the pants...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Today we had 147 people through Santa's Lap. We also had Black, Brown and Yellow Labs, a Golden Retriever, a Bull dog, and a Paris Hilton dog. I will have to do a count because I think we are getting close to 3000 people. I would like to say something about the Retriever - he was a licking machine with paws everywhere; they never stopped.

The "Talent" was on TV twice today... I was on Fox 43 in a commercial and I have to admit I was really good. It is good that the "Talent' is humble. (You may ask for the autographs later.)

Well, today I had another first. A young lady asked for a picture. When they were about to click the photo, she gave Santa a kiss on the cheek! (I've got the picture to prove it!) It is so good that Santa is a constant professional...Today was also strange as there were a large number of people in the store. I was busy at the start and later on. We also had a very large group of Amish in the store. We were guessing about 100 (however, not one of them had a picture with Santa).

Also today, BPS had dinner for all the working employees, and I was invited to join in. I have to admit it was nice; and the chicken was yummy.

I hope all my Blogger's had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Get your rest for Black Friday.

Happy days.

Santa Joe

It is the pre Holiday Blog

Are we all thrilled that the official start to the Christmas Season starts tomorrow? Why is Santa in Harrisburg so early? (If you know tell me.) Hopefully we all learned our lesson...there is no reason for this early of a start.

OK, today we had 100 little wonders on Santa's lap. Plus we had 2 different dog's - a Yellow Lab and a Golden Pointer. The Yellow Lab was really nice, the Golden Pointer was a handful.

Today we had a couple of gems. The first one is a fun one. I heard this little voice crying and trying to get Santa's attention. I turned and saw a little girl crying and pointing to the reindeer (caribou). Her mom asked me to help. I asked her what happened and she replied, "I said something and Santa needs to fix it." I asked the mom "What did you DO?" Well, mom told her daughter that the reindeer were dead and Santa had them "stuffed." I gave mom a 'why did you do that' look, knelt down and told the little girl that all 9 main reindeer (naming each one with her) are fine, and the 2 in the display were old ones that did not fly. Then I held my breath to await the girl's reply. She looked at me and said "OK" and that was it. Santa saved the DAY. (So what else is new!)

The last one kind of took Santa by surprise, to say the least. I was minding my own business and being the great Santa I am; but this is a new one. I had a collage student (she was wearing a Sorority sweatshirt) taking her little sister to see Santa. The little girl wanted her big sister to sit with her. So, as you know, I said "Sure" and each took a knee. Well...the older sister put her arm behind Santa's back and started to play with my HAIR on the back of my neck. I almost forgot to smile! (But I had a grin.) As a professional, I had a great smile for the picture plus nobody knew the difference. I could say more...but it might put my Emmy in jeopardy. I am sure she did not even know what she was doing...???

Santa had a newer Elf helping today. He was born 8 miles east of Santa's Home at the North Pole, in North Branch. I was impressed - ya betcha.

Happy Thanksgiving eve,

Santa Joe

30 Day's t'ill Christmas

Yes, it is only one month until the big day...or 29 shopping days (unless your Santa's brother - then you have 30). Just in case you are wondering if I am going to do a day-by-day countdown, I don't think so.

Today we had a good day with 147 people through Santa's Wonderland. We also had a Black Lab come and visit. There was a steady group of people the whole shift. Yesterday, a couple and their child drove 150 miles to see Santa. OK, yes they bought items in BPS, but they still saw the "Talent." Some of you might wonder if we do anything else for our customers. Well, yes. Besides the free pictures, they get a coupon for a free kids meal at Applebee's.

Jimmy is on his way to New York for FOX & Friends. I wish him luck because of the long drive and there is snow falling the majority of the way. It was decided not do Santa's Wonderland again, but to do a Camping and Cooking demo. I told you about it earlier - they are cooking a 12-pound turkey in 41 minutes.

Today was, let's say...we had them all. We had every age group and gender. We had girls in their "packs," dating couples, and war veterans. We had generation pictures, family shots, and a dog. We had people that dislike Santa, and people who love Santa. We had the disabled, and a religious sect. Sometime I'll go through all of the different nationalities that have come in to visit.

We did have a special little girl today who has Old Age syndrome. The child was not older than 9 and looked 90. She was excited (as was I) and I went down on one knee to pick her up. (Yes Santa was very gentle as he picked her up and set her down). It was something to see her and to have her ask in her older high voice for dolls, a stroller, and dress-up clothing. It was something to experience!

We also had a strange request today. A 16-18 yr old would only sit with Santa if I made a weird face - no smiling allowed. I agreed and did a goofy expression for the picture...and just before she turned to look at me afterward, I had a smile. Well, she was upset with me that I was laughing and she said she was going ripping up the picture. Then the picture was handed to her and she was very happy to see that I had made a goofy face... Please don't ask me to explain teenagers.


Happy Sled rides,


Santa Joe

As it ticks by...

Hello to you all...Today was very slow at best, we had 46 people through Santa's Wonderland. We did not even have a dog today. The weather might have played a part, it was raining all day.

I just have just one little gem. A little boy was on Santa's knee and after the picture I asked him what he wanted from Santa. "Well," he said "I already told the other guy." I said who? He said he already told "the grumpy Santa in the Mall." I asked if he got a picture and he said NO, it cost's too much from him.

I don't understand why a parent would go from one Santa to another? When the best and most-talented Santa is at BPS...OK, now I know Santa is accustom to the white stuff, and the cold weather. I was told that in November and December it is usually 45-50 degrees during the day, and about 10 degrees less at night. Well, somebody fibbed to Santa. It's been in the 30's for a week or more and colder at night. People ask me how I like the snow in Harrisburg and I say it makes me homesick. So all of you who wanted Santa to see snow, I SEE IT so make it STOP, and turn up the heat.

I think the three photos above are self-explanatory...

Santa Joe

OK, everybody be good !

Hi to you all! Today was a shorter shift and we had 320 little ones on film. The count does not take into effect little one who just wants to chat with Santa, or the one that wishes to just pass by. Yes, I said pass by. It is the new "get to know HO HO" idea out here. Mom and/or dad walk up with the little ones in their arms and touch my jacket, fur, or hat and say, "See, isn't HO HO nice?" and "He is nice and soft." (My non-Santa side wants to say get a grip.) Hey, can anybody tell Santa who started this HO HO junk? It happens all day from parents talking to their child (yes, some say Santa) as they place them in my lap. Santa will tell you the truth, just say Santa or Santa Claus; drop the HO HO, it is very irritating.

We also did an older Golden Lab that was great and stayed when told! There were a couple of mixed breeds as well - one was wild and the other just looked bored and let Santa hold it. The pooch was cute, I have to say.

Okay, Santa had a rough day - one physical, the other emotional. The first one was another headbutt (face plant to be exact) to the groin. This one really was a accident. There is a small lip on the Santa porch and the little ones keep catching their shoes on it. Anyway, I was distracted and a little boy came at me fast. I could not react in time, shoes hit lip and head hit groin. (No, don't worry, the kid's fine.) I lost my breath and started to double up, but I saved it. One kid asked me why I was sweating and my voice sounded funny (Okay, no kid said that...but it would have been nice.) I need to have the elves work on the body-guarding part of their job. The "Talent" is getting bruised.

The second still chokes me up. We had a 12-14 yr old challenged youth come who just loves Santa (according to his mom). Well, after hug #3 and all the excitement that comes with it, he gave me a gift I was not to open. I had a picture taken with him and the gift, and he was thrilled. I had more hugs, a kiss, an 'I love you,' and a high five. I started to cry as did his mom, and all I saw was pure joy from this Santa fan. I tried to hold it but could not. Santa was professional and held his eyes with his cotton gloves to hold it back. I stopped the line for a second or 10 and started to see kids again. The gift was a decorated folder for my "gift" notes, and his name................Joe.

I will NEVER EVER understand why some Santa's refuse to allow these kids (at heart) to come to them. They need to quit NOW. In all Santa honesty, I think I am the only Santa in Harrisburg that accepts everybody (in fact, I know I am the only one), and still gives a free picture.

Time to change the subject! Alright everyone in Blog land, we have to keep it clean because I found out my blog has been hacked by two of my elves. OK, hacked is not quite right because I gave them the web address...So I hope they enjoy it as much as the rest of you have.

Hey I almost forgot, Bass Pro Shops invited me to their Christmas Party tonight. It was fun and I had the pleasure to meet the spouses/friends of the elves. It was fun to see them out of the shop, and I can't get over C's hair...I never saw it before as it's always covered by the elf hat. (I don't use their names because I have not asked their permission.) Two nights in a row I get to say I'm proud of the elves...

Good night and happy dreams,


Santa Joe

Not only Santa can smell Cookies?

Hello all my faithful blog followers! Today we had 476 little and not so little friends on Santa's lap. That also includes a great older Black Lab that offered to wash Santa's face. (I declined the offer.) We almost made my goal of 500, but were 24 short....lol

Now to the question. I smelled chocolate chip cookies at the store (no they don't make any) and it was driving me nuts (watch it)! I found out that one of my elves was wearing "smelly" flavored chap stick (she said no, but you know elves...) and I was not the only one who smelled it. So after a half baked investigation (get it?) I discovered it was the elf that handles the nuts (hey, be nice - now remember we have fresh roasted Pecans, Walnuts, and Almonds daily). So yet another brain twister solved by your cracker jack Santa. (The "talent" is just astounding; it just makes you warm all over, doesn't it?)

Today was very odd. Santa had to take an extra break because his blood sugar was out of whack. My expert elves noticed it before I did. Thank you, to the Elves!!! But I was back at it after a short break and doing much better. I had a line of kids that stretched longer than I like, so when we had a photo problem I worked the line. I talked to the kids and parents, posed for pictures, and just chatted with them saying that I would be with them as fast as I could.

Like I've said before...I make toys, not computers. There is a reason for that. If you have the wrong computer, you are up a frozen creek without a chisel. I can't say anything more, but those who know and are reading this...they know. (What?!)

Anyway I am off to bed, with a long day Sunday.

Santa Joe

Let the bells ring, and the confetti fly.

Well with today's 84 little wonders, we have now taken over 2000 pictures for this one store...and this one lap. (This does not include the camera being down for over a hour either.) We only had 1 dog today; it was a teacup toy Yorkie. Man, was the little ball of fluff cute, and little.

Well, I thought today was the day of the big wipe out! I just started in the big chair and I believe it was the 3rd kid who, when he hit my lap, started tooting. Not once, but 3 times! And he was too old for diapers, so I thought I was one second away from a wipe out. But for those of you placing bets, I am still all clean. The methane does not count.

This cute little girl came up, dad put her in my lap, and approx. 2 seconds later I got a head butt to the nose, her back was arched, and her legs were flying. Now this is NOT the worst one I have had, but I thought she drew blood (but no). Some people say just let her go; however I can't until the parents come and get the child. I have told parents that I will not fight the child, and some children should wait another year to sit with Santa. This is for my protection as well as there's. I am responsible for the little ones from the time they are released into my hands to the time the parents get them. If I just let go, most kids would just flop to the ground with a thud and I am responsible. If you don't believe me, just look at the amount of liability insurance I have to carry.
Tomorrow is my long day - 11 hours - and I expect a large amout of kids if the photo system works as well as it should.

Good night from Santa Joe.

We are closing in...on what you say?

Hello all good little blog followers.... Today we had 80 photos taken, but a larger number of kids that just wanted to talk (with no picture). We also had a few dogs, a teacup little ball of fur, a Black Lab, a Paris Hilton dog, a couple of mixed breeds, a beautiful Australian Shepard, and a Pit Bull.

Sorry I can't remember the breeds' names.

Today we had a chat on New York, and it might happen...but I would not bet the bank on it. I think they would have me do it if I would do it for free; but if you want the "Talent" you have to pay for it.

Hey, not to pick on Jimmy but I forgot one little item - his shoe size... Now as we all know Jimmy is a tall slender man, that could not hurt a fly and you can barely notice he is in a room. OK, Santa is fibbing through his teeth. Look at my past Blogs and look at his picture - the boy can bench press a truck... To hold up the thin little frame you need a size 14 W. No wonder he feels so at home in New York walking between the diamond district and Time Square!

As you can see, I added some more pictures. I have the aid of a brand new digital camera from Mrs. Claus for my Birthday. One is the walkway to Santa's chair, 2 of my elves, and 2 Reindeer (no, none of the 9).

See you tomorrow. Keep those questions coming.

Santa Joe

Only 375 days until Next season

Now there's a thought! Today we had 47 Santa fans come through the Big Chair. I am trying to keep track and I guess by the end of this weekend I will have over 2000 photos taken. If I reach that point I get a bonus - an extra thick pillow for my Santa Butt.

I want to thank everyone who is trying to make it to Snow in Harrisburg. I saw it snow quite heavily and by the time I went outside to sing "Frosty the Snowman" it was gone. It was enough however to kill off the flowers and green plants. I told my elves that the snow and cold was making me home sick, but I got over it.

I talked with my bunking buddy, Jimmy, and he told me that they are looking for a Santa for a special in New York on Thanksgiving. They are making the same set again for FOX & Friends. Plus they are doing a special on how to cook a turkey in a deep fryer. I said I hope they don't have Santa cook the bird. Well, Santa might have started something. With Jimmy laughing about my comment and how they should make it a how NOT to deep fry your turkey. Just so you know a 12 pound bird takes 41 minutes, and is not greasy (according to Jimmy). So is the "Talent" heading for New York to be with his public? I'll keep the Emmy committee in the loop. Heaven's, I'll need a posse when I get back to the North Pole. Maybe Paris will want to hang with Me?

Well it's time to polish my belt buckle, and update my Fan photo file ...

See you on the flip side (that's Hollywood talk),

Santa Joe the "Talent"

Who said puppys don't leave a mark?

Well today I had 74 little wonders on my lap. I also had Multi Poo (it a kind of DOG, let's clean it up, I'm Santa), 2 Alaskan Huskies, one Black Lab, a Pug, and a Pomeranian who came to visit.

We had a group of Boy Scouts in the store and some of them saw Santa. I had a great time talking with them as I was also a Boy Scout. I guess Boy Scouts are huge in PA. I also want to mention that the whole troop of Scouts - all 27 - are going for the Eagle Badge together. That is the highest rank a Scout can get, and less than 5% get it nationwide. The reason for the visit was to work on a marine merit badge and Bass Pro Shops (BPS) have a HUGE fish aquarium - it is 2 1/2 stories tall and about 30 feet wide. They learned about the fish and the steps BPS take to safeguard them. Also this BPS has two fish on the Endangered Species List in the tank. They have such strict rule's on the fish...I'd hate to see if something happens to one of them.

I was told that someone took a swim in the tank today; no thanks! Let me say this...that person is on Santa's OTHER list.

Santa would also like to share with sorrow the passing of Santa Mike's father-in-law. He is now trying to make it home for the funeral. Santa Mike will be going back to his chair shortly after the funeral.

Please remember me and Mrs. Claus in your prayers. It can be very hard sometimes on both of us, but Mrs. Claus has to keep an eye on the Factory while I am away.

Keep smiling - you never know if I'm Checking!

Santa Joe

and the beat goes on...

Hi, we are now into week 2 of a extra long Santa season. Today I had 73 little wonders, and a pair of Welsh Corgi's. They were very cute, and they sat on Santa's Lap and with no accidents. The dogs were good too...lol


I was asked if any parents ask me what the kids say, yes but very rarely. The most asked for gift's for females are Cell phones and a Computer (yes both), and for males it is Star Wars Lego's, and Natieno DX. Don't count the spelling please I make toy's not auto speller's. People that know me asked how I am coping, it is getting harder but I will make it work even if I'm, well talk to Mrs.Claus. Last question for tonight is; How do I keep from catching every bug that comes through. Well, I had a Flu Shot 2 weeks before I left, updated my shots, and I am taking Vitamin's daily. Plus I wash my hands at breaks or at least use the germ killer lotion.

I am wearing my Red Suit everyday, so I stay nice and warm. I am in the big chair everyday but it varies on the day of the week.

Thanks and see you later.


Santa Joe

Hey even the Big guy get tired.

Hi, well today (Sunday) Santa ran out of Gas I was too tired to Blog. But after a nice 7 hour NAP here I go.



Sunday was a day of great twists and turns. I called for a cab for my ride to Bass Pro Shops on Saturday night and I asked for a Sunday 10:30am pickup. Well I guess it means one thing here and another in the Tundra. My ride was here and antsy 9:45, needless to say I was at Bass Pro plenty early. But I went for a walk in the mall, chatted with people and was in my seat on time.



See I forgot to give you my lap count, well I cannot give you an exact number because the auto counter broke just over halfway through. But a good Santa guess is 375-400 people through the Big Guy's Lap. I was told we have the highest photo count so far this year. And remember they are free. The highest number of people in one photo was 8.



Anyway maybe its me or because it was Sunday but the kids were sure cute all dressed up for the photos. One of the funnest things are the older teens, mainly the males they sure don't like being forced to have a picture taken. I can see the poor pain in there eyes ( its the same at the toddlers) as they make there way to see me, head down, hands in pockets and there feet getting heavier with each step. Well Santa does not want to inflict any pain, so I tell them to stand beside the chair and I'll just sit here. That works most of the time. The teen girls just think its stupid, unless they are in there "pack" then they all giggle and want to sit in my lap.



We also had some dogs in today, let see if I can remember the breeds, one long haired Dog, a Pointer Retriever, Golden Lab, German Shepard, a Great Dane, 3 Black Lab's, and a mixed breed. The German Shepard was by far the best behaved. All just Sunday.



Monday is a short day, so maybe a quick nap.



Santa Joe

Santa is one pooped out trooper! We had 820 photo's taken with 1-6 people per photo for the 11 hours. I hate to even bring this up, but my butt hurts to sit and write this. I have another long day on Sunday. (Just to ease your figuring, we only allow one photo per person.)

I learned something today (mark the calenders)! What we are doing here is unique. We do not charge the public anything for all of the activities in Santa's Wonderland. We have Santa, 2 shooting galleries, 2 coloring stations, a battery/cordless truck race track, 2 trains going, 2 movie stations, and last but not least...the free photo with ME.

The Mall we are attached to started their own Santa today. A lot of customers told me that just to talk to him cost 8 bucks, and a non-posed photo is 10 bucks. So an average person will pay $18 per kid to get past Santa. Another mall on the other side of town charges $19 for the same, but you MUST pay ahead and get a ticket! How stupid is that? Just in case you are wondering...I would NEVER be a Santa for something like that.

Also just for those who keep score, it finally happened. Santa got his...well....ummmm... "chest NUTS" rattled. This 10-year old kid - that could be a linebacker - came toward me and...before I could react, Santa turned purple and had trouble speaking for a time, let alone sit up straight. I noticed from the reaction of my photo elf that he knew what happened. He gave me a thumps up, laughed, and told me what I looked like. I think Santa needs a body guard.

As you can see, I posted some more photos to enjoy.

Santa Joe

Let the games begin.

Well hello there, have you been a good little boy/girl??? Sorry I could not help it, we had 118 people through my 4hour shift. We had some great people with special needs at the start, I don't know what one young lady had but she could maneuver her adaptive wheel chair better than I could walk. Man was it fun.

As you could guess the time just flew by, and with a 11 hour shift on the grandest of all days, it had better fly. Yes you are correct Saturday is 11-15-08, and my real birthday. They say you are only as old you feel, well I'll be 112 years old. If you really want to know how old I am ask!

I also know I am getting old when I am being chewed out by somebody (area supervisor) who can't be older than some of the sores on my feet?! Anyway he wants me to wear my complete red Santa Suit even with the hat and gloves. I first got a little warm under the green Santa shirt I was wearing because he is doing it in public, and when I had a kid in my hands. (bad on both counts) I told him that per the agreement with Bass Pro Shops I don't have to unless I wish or when it was the grand opening of Santa Wonderland last week. He said to put it on and I said no it in my agreement and Jim the big boss agreed to it. ( Just encase you are wondering I would not have come to Harrisburg if I was required to wear the Red Suit at all times.) Now let me bore you with a bit of Santa rules; One, every Santa MUST wear the Red Suit to and from the Santa chair , two, if you take off the jacket, hat and/or gloves it MUST be in public. This is so you do NOT break the illusion of Santa. Well I heard from a Manager he kicked it to Jim the big Boss in a email.

As you can plainly see I added some more pictures. The one with the 3 people --the male in the green jacket is Big Jimmy my roomy in New York, the other male is Jim the Big Boss, and the lady in the middle is Deb the real boss, she is the Office Manager. The other two are of me on opening day of Santa Wonderland and I am sitting in front of Santa workshop. I will add more pictures tomorrow. IF I am still alive after my 11 hours.

Bye for now,

Santa Joe

The day wears on.

Well today we had 41 people on my knee, plus 1 dog. I also had a wonderful little girl who just loves Santa.



The little girl was of special needs, and in truth really does not matter... Her mom asked if it was alright for her to come to Santa, and it's her favorite person. I said sure and the mom let go of the girls hand, and she (little girl) just flew down the isle. I knelt down to catch her, and she just about ripped my head off because she rapped her arms around my neck so tight. I got her turned around to take a picture, and I chatted with her (she could not speak) and she attempted to communicate and Santa understood. After she got down her father went digging in his wallet and started to pull out some real money, I asked him what he was doing, and he said he was giving me a tip. I advised him I do not accept tips. He wanted me to take the money because I was so kind to his daughter. I said politely as I could that I never accept tips for doing my Job, and nobody should accept a tip for being kind to your daughter EVER. I could tell by the look on his face that what I did has not happened before, and what I said kind of stung. I had a lull so I went out were she was coloring and she saw me coming so she a sticky hug (she just finished a candy cane) and a big smile. I told the mom and dad to bring there daughter everyday if they want. It was the best sticky hug I ever had.



Now to the dog it was a 1 year old jet black Great Dane (it should have had a saddle on it) and the owner wanted a picture of the dog and Santa. Well with all the noise, people talking getting a puppy to sit still is next to impossible. The owner got the dog to sit and stay next to me (the dog was on the floor) and I could see by his eyes I was going to get it. The dog leaped forward and Santa was almost air born, because I was hanging onto his collar. The owner helped me gain some control and a picture was taken. The dog was still better than the beast from days earlier.



That's enough excitement for one night, I need to ICE my shoulder.



Santa Joe

And the answer is?

Hello, in today note I will answer some questions I have been getting, Yes, yes, sometimes, NO, yes, if I can... I hope this helps.



Today was a nice well spaced day. I worked 4hrs and we had 53 kids, and all went well. I had two kids that stick out, and both were little ladies about 10-12 years old ( watch the comments, I'm Santa after all ) The first one was a pageant child, she was primed up, and very well placed makeup. She would not sit, she posed on the side of my chair, and she flashed a smile that was well practiced. She was very nice but mom must have had a rapid fire camera, because by the time she was done I could no longer see. Well I could see a bright white light with a tad of yellow. For a brief second I thought I died, but I closed my eyes and when I opened them mom was still there. I asked her what Santa could bring her and she asked for a very specific type of PJ's ( don't ask what kind, I'm a guy and it just blew by). I asked if she really wanted pajamas from Santa, and she said yes... (Those must be some kind of PJ's)



The second little lady was excited to see Santa, I could tell because she almost ran up to see me. When she arrived on my knee, she put her arm around me and we snapped a picture, and her mom did 2 normally paced pictures. (Thank you Lord) I asked her what she wanted for Christmas she asked for a America Girl Doll and that is all she wanted. I always ask if they have a question for Santa. She said no. BUT I had a comment, I told her that she smelled wonderful, and she thanked me and I said that she was the best smelling little girl I ever had. That got a nice blush from her. I thanked her for coming. I noticed she hung around at the different stations, and she came up to me from the side and gave me a colored picture and a thank you note.



Just another day in the life of Santa. I am holding up pretty well, mainly because I control the pace, and being quiet I can get up and down as I need to. This weekend will be a great test, 11 hours on Saturday ( yes my birthday), and 5 on Sunday.



See you tomorrow.



Santa Joe

Did somebody say "up chuck"

Well it was bound to happen, and let me tell you all about it. In a Bit... Today was a better day at the office, I had about 66 people on my lap,and I was glad when they all got off...LOL Ok that was really bad, but I'm tired.

Today I had a little darling that I could tell was not quite about all there, then I saw the baby...lol Ok I'll stop...

Now back to the baby, I could tell she was a little ill. She looks about a year old. The mom put the little one on my lap, and I went to have our picture taken and my elf was yapping to another elf. I could tell I better get the thing over fast, I tried to get his attention but to no avail so I spoke in secret Santa word's " hey elf take a picture ", and snap it went. I handed her to mom and at that moment PUKE from mom's neck into her blouse. I almost lost it but I was professional, but the elf smiled at me and gave me a big thumbs up.

Yes I bring a complete outfit just encase something like this happens, and yes it happens more than I want to know. Santa's have received them all.

Hey, I am going TRY and put on 2 pictures, wish me luck. The picture with the chair and a log cabin is were I sit and greet the little one ( and not so little ). The other is one of the train tables and laser shooting range for the kids to play with. Now you are asking why so dark, it was before the lighting was allowed to be turned on. More pictures in a few days,

Santa Joe

Day 2

Well it's Monday and my first regular afternoon shift ( I am the only one). It was a 4 hours of pure.......ok you fill in the blank. We had 43 kids for the entire time, that figures out to be just under 11 little ones an hour. About 90% of them came in the first hour and a half. Let me put it another way, I had plenty of time with the kids.

I still find it funny that as a small one is being walked to me his/her eyes keep getting bigger, and the feet get heavier. Some kids have a cute back peddling thing that catches mom and dad off guard, and shortly after that they loose all muscle control and look like a rag doll.

I had the kid Santa's hate. The poor little boy wanted nothing to do with Santa, and he told Grandma that the whole way to me. I asked the lady if it would not be wise to wait another year or so, I don't want to trauma the kid. Grandma did not like what I said, and she was not going to let he kid win, so she plopped the boy in my lap, and as the old saying goes"the fight was on". I got a head butt to the chest, a kick to the groin ( yes he missed), a hand full of beard, yells and tears. This is all in less than 6 seconds ! (Don't you agree this was wonderful for the child ?!) Finally Grandma assisted me in freeing myself from this beast, and oh somehow I was at fault because I did not control him better..(?????) I got such a look of disgust from the boy and yes his lower lip was out also.

See you tomorrow, I hope.

Santa Joe

First real day on the job?

Hello,



Well today was my first day at the Bass Pro shop and man was there a lot of kids. I was to work a 4hr shift, but I was called in early to get the scoop on the big grand opening. I went in as asked and I they had me do a walk through of my parts for the opening.



So to let you know driving around a mall in the back of a Bass Boat is not as much fun as you might think. I waved and and said Hi as they pulled me up to a raised platform to jump off the boat (yep they did stop it for me) and then fun started. I did a little take on how wonderful it is for Bass Pro Shops are for doing Christmas different this year, and I was interviewed by the local TV Channel 21 if you want to look me up. ( yes more air time for Santa ). I said something like man it's getting dark out here (5:30pm), maybe we should have some lights, the weatherman agreed with me so I had them all yell 1,2,3 and wave my arms and the outside lights were to POP on, Nope (blew a fuse), tried it a second time and then they went on... So then we made our way into the foyer of this place and I was to do the same thing to light this huge tree, the Weather Guy and I did our thing (the mic broke) so we sang songs with the kids and posed for photos. So the new mic came and we tried, (no Batteries) and tried again then with the new mic back, and new batteries, we tried again, ( forgot to turn the mic ON), so we did the 1,2,3 and no light up,we tried 3 more times and finally the tree turned on (blown fuse, and somebody turned off the power strip), the tree was really cool. So the Weather guy and I went to Santa's Winter Wonderland to light it up, and we did the 1,2,3 thing and it turned right on to the cheers of the large group.



I then took my seat at the door to Santa's workshop to await the kids. But first the weather guy asked me to do a promo for the station, I said sure why not ( the "Talent" was in no danger). I did a stick with him on my lap for the ALL NEW SUPER DUPER DOPPLER RADAR, which is so powerful it tracked Santa ( the "talent")coming in for the event. Plus it will track him on Christmas as he makes his rounds. ( I could feel my hat tightening, for some reason??) Anyway they put a mic on me so they could hear and tape me talking with the first few kids.



So after all this I started to my part with the kids. We took 132 pictures and had 177 people on my lap. Now I said people for a reason I had kids, babies, teenagers, parents, grandparents, and people from Japan and China. The youngest was 6 days and a few in the area of 6-7 weeks, they were beyond cute. I did this in 2 1/2 hours, and I never forgot to ask what they wanted for Christmas. After the last people were heading out the young lady from China said that this was there first picture ever with there whole family including his parents. Plus she could not believe we did not charge for the pictures... That was really cool.



Oh, and I should have some pictures posted in a few days. I hope.



Take care and see you tomorrow.



Santa

Hey a free Video 2 of them !

Hi,

Check out this link to Fox and Friends.

http://www.foxnews.com/video/index.html?playerId=videolandingpage&streamingFormat=FLASH&referralObject=3181424&referralPlaylistId=playlist
and

http://www.foxnews.com/video/index.html?playerId=videolandingpage&streamingFormat=FLASH&referralObject=3181426&referralPlaylistId=searchsanta
Thats me in the Santa Suit.

Finally a web connection!

Hello to you... I figure I have to give you 2 days of whats happening due to no connection yesterday.



They called on Friday and changed my time for pick up to 1:30am, now I am even more tired. I finally got to bed about 9:30pm my time... As a few of you know I could not sleep, so I just got up even earlier for the day.



My ride was there right on time and could I sleep in the car, not really. So I arrived on the set at 7am on Friday. Nothing was setup, that arrived in 3 semi's (moving vans) about the same time I did. Well it took until almost the time to shoot to put up a extra large white tent and a mock of the set for the promo. I was told that as the people (the anchors of Fox and Friends) come out of commercial I would hear a knock on the door to my work shop and I should POP out the top window and I should hold a hammer. Well after I checked, all I needed was to POP up in the window, I was happier, as Santa would break at anything over 3 feet.



So it happened just that way, and the crowded loved it (about 30 kids and teenagers). I asked what was next, lets put it this way, they don't want the "talent" hurt so I hung around for a few more hours trying not to get in the way of the Set building.



I was told my hotel room (oh and I shared it with Jimmy who was building the Set) was ready, and I got to take a real nap before we all met for dinner. The room was very nice and I nap on the sofa ( the room had a small kitchen sofa and a king size bed.). Now Jimmy is a really nice guy, and he is bigger than Santa. so he got the bed for the night, and the "talent" got the sofa.



Saturday November 8th.



Set call was for 6am, and a cab was waiting for me as was Jimmy just encase I over slept. I arrived in the Green Room (which is Yellow) to get myself ready. I had to be ready for the camera call at 6:45 am, I was. Just after they had the "talent" in his Santa Chair I could see a bus load of kids heading for the Green Room to get ready for Santa. I was Micro phoned and had tiny camera mounted under/thru my beard. This is to capture the real shots of the kids just encase they were telling Santa something cool, they would break "in" the programming to show the kid and what they were saying. As far as what they said, only 1 was worth a break in, he was talking about his brother in Iraq and what HE wanted for Christmas.



Well for the next 3 hours I had 25 kids and there parents (parents were held in the background) I was asked for everything from Barbie and Bratz dolls to Xboxes. Oh and not let me forget the New Car (the kids are in 1st grade). After the 3 hour Fox and Friends, they have what is called "the Show after the Show" which is a live Web feed and it is posted on there web site. That was fun.


So after that was done I got to give all the kids a gift and it had a secret code - pink for girls and blue for boys. They had to tell me that 3 times. After the gifts I took alot of pictures of me and the kids and there mom or dad. I also went outside and greeted the group forming to see the "talent" and had even more pictures. One of the people in charge seemed upset I was doing this with the public, I saw his boss, and just off the cuff said " Man you can't buy this kind of publicity " He said I was so right and keep it up... Needless to say everything was better after the boss said it was OK.



I changed into street clothing and was ready to help take down the SET, but was told the "talent" could not be injured. So I watched 14hrs of set building be taken down and put away in 4 1/2 hours in the pouring rain. And just encase you wondered the "talent" was barely dampened. But my hair and beard frizzed out due to the rain, what am I to do, Do I hear MAKE UP???



Thanks for checking, and I will do more updating daily.



Bless you,



Santa Joe

It's already been a Whirlwind!

Cheryl drove me to the airport bright and early this morning. We left the house at 3:30am! After delays with my connecting flight and bumpy rides because of the bad weather, I arrived in Harrisburg around noon today...and it's already been a whirlwind!

I was told that plans have changed and that FOX and Friends want me on their show tomorrow morning (Friday) AND Saturday morning. A car is picking me up at 2am to drive me to New York...and I still don't know what they want me to do while on the show. I was provided with a suit to wear while on TV, even though my own suit is nicer. Why? I don't know. I am insisting that I wear my own Santa boots, however, and they okay'd that.

Right now I am going to walk up the road to get groceries for the apartment, eat, then GO TO BED! Make sure you check me out tomorrow and Saturday so that you can tell me later on what I did!!

Just a few short hours to go.

Hello to my fan's... I found out somemore information on the Fox and Friends TV show, they said I will be on for 3 hours from 7-10 am EST (again please double check times). They said I will learn more on Friday the 7th. So I will pass on more when I can.

Thanks

Santa Joe

It's two days and counting before Santa starts his season! Everything is getting set aside in their places so they are not forgotten when packing begins.

Check out FOX and FRIENDS on November 8 - 6am-9am LIVE (double check airing time for your area). It's still unknown how involved I'll be...when I find out more, I'll be sure to pass it along.

For those of you that might like to see where I'm going to be, I will be at the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (PA) Bass Pro Shop starting on November 9. They have set aside 5,000 square feet of their store for Santa's Workshop. There are a lot of good pictures of the store online. Look them up on Google. (All Bass Pro websites have a city selector...type in Harrisburg, PA).

Please remember to keep Santa in your prayers now until Christmas Day! It's going to be a very busy season.